Can You Ship a Non-Running Car? Yes — But Here’s What Most People Get Wrong

Understanding What “Inoperable” Means (and Why It Costs More)

You found the perfect car. The price is right. The only catch? It doesn’t run.

Whether it’s a stalled restoration project, an auction win, or a car you’re saving from the scrapyard, non-running vehicles come with extra headaches when it’s time to ship. And if you don’t understand how auto transporters define “inoperable,” you could face surprise fees, canceled pickups, or worse — a truck that simply won’t take your car.

Let’s clear up the confusion and save you money before things go sideways.

What Is a “Non-Running” or “Inoperable” Vehicle in Shipping Terms?

Not All Non-Runners Look the Same

You might think a car that doesn’t start is obviously inoperable. But to a carrier, the definition goes deeper. Some non-runners are simply cars with a dead battery. Others are stripped-out shells without wheels.

Here’s how many carriers classify condition:

• Operable: Starts, rolls, steers, brakes — can drive onto a trailer
• Inoperable (but movable): Doesn’t start, but can roll and steer (e.g., dead battery, minor engine failure)
• Inoperable (immobile): Can’t roll or steer (e.g., flat tires on rims, seized brakes, missing suspension)

If a vehicle can’t be moved under its own power or winched onto a trailer, it’s not just inoperable — it’s non-loadable without heavy equipment.

Common Conditions That Make a Car "Inoperable"

Some typical reasons a car is flagged as inoperable include:

• Dead or missing battery
• Flat or shredded tires
• Locked steering column
• Seized brakes or stuck transmission
• Missing keys
• Severe engine or transmission failure
• Broken axles or collapsed suspension

If the vehicle can’t roll, steer, or brake, it likely qualifies as inoperable vehicle transport — and that means different pricing, equipment, and availability.

Can You Actually Ship a Non-Running Car? Yes — But There’s a Catch

Why Standard Open Transport May Not Be Enough

Most standard carriers use open trailers designed for running vehicles. They rely on quick, powered loading and unloading. A non-running car changes that rhythm entirely.

If the transporter isn't prepared or doesn’t have the right equipment, they may refuse pickup — even if the car was booked.

When a Winch Is Essential (and When It's Not Enough)

For many inoperable cars, a winch is the solution. It allows the vehicle to be pulled onto the trailer. But if the car can’t roll at all — because the wheels are seized, missing, or severely damaged — a winch won't help.

In these cases, specialized equipment like forklifts or wheel dollies may be needed at both pickup and delivery, which increases costs and limits your options.

Common Mistakes People Make with Inoperable Cars

Assuming All Carriers Accept Non-Runners

Inoperable vehicles require more time and effort. Not all transporters are equipped to deal with them. Some flat-out refuse. Make sure you work with a company that understands salvage car shipping and inoperable vehicle transport.

Failing to Accurately Describe the Car’s Condition

“It doesn’t run” isn’t enough. Be detailed. Does it roll? Steer? Are the tires inflated? Do the brakes work?

The more detail you give, the more accurate the quote — and the less likely you’ll run into surprises on pickup day.

Not Verifying Winch Availability

Always ask if the assigned carrier has a winch and is experienced in handling non-running vehicles. Some companies charge extra for this service, or won’t provide it unless specifically requested.

Get the Right Price — and Avoid the Guesswork

You can estimate the cost of shipping a standard car fairly easily. But when it comes to non-running vehicles, the details matter — and skipping one can cost you.

Get a customized quote for your non-running vehicle:
Use the TCI Shipping Calculator and be sure to select "inoperable" for accurate pricing.

The Practical Side of Shipping a Non-Runner

So you’ve confirmed your car doesn’t run. Maybe it won’t start. Maybe it won’t roll. Either way, you’re past denial — now it’s time to deal with the logistics.

In this part of the guide, we’ll cover exactly how much more it costs, what affects those fees, how to prepare a non-running vehicle for pickup, and what to ask before you book any transporter.

This is where most buyers either save money — or get stuck with delay charges and headaches.

How Much More Does It Cost to Ship a Non-Running Vehicle?

Let’s start with the question everyone asks first: how much extra does it cost?

Short answer: somewhere between $150 and $350, on average. But like everything in shipping, that’s just the beginning.

Key Factors Influencing Extra Inoperable Fees

• Type of inoperability: A car that rolls and steers but doesn’t start will be cheaper than one with seized brakes and flat tires.
• Equipment needs: Winch? Forklift? Wheel skates? Specialized gear adds cost.
• Pickup and drop-off access: Remote areas or tight spaces may require special arrangements.
• Carrier availability: Fewer drivers are equipped for non-running cars — limited supply means higher price.
• Distance and route: Non-runners take longer to load/unload, so long hauls are less attractive to many drivers.
• Time of year: Peak seasons (summer, January) usually raise all shipping costs — especially for complex loads.

If your vehicle is being picked up from an auto auction, also ask about storage fees. Many yards charge by the day after the first 48 hours — and if your transporter isn’t equipped or scheduled properly, those costs add up fast.

How to Properly Prepare a Non-Running Car for Transport

You might think “it doesn’t run” means there’s nothing to prepare. In reality, non-running cars require even more attention, not less.

Essential Pre-Shipment Checklist for Inoperable Cars

• Functionality Check: Does the car roll, steer, and brake at all? If not, tell the transporter immediately.
• Tires: Inflate them if possible. If flat or damaged, communicate that in advance.
• Personal Items: Remove everything loose from the interior and trunk.
• Fluid Leaks: If there are major leaks (gas, coolant, oil), they must be addressed before shipping.
• Keys: Include the keys, even if the car doesn’t run. Transporters often need to unlock steering or shift gears.

When a Winch Isn’t Enough: Forklifts and Special Handling

If the vehicle won’t roll, steer, or brake — even with a winch — you're entering forklift territory.

This is common with:

• Salvage auction vehicles
• Cars missing wheels or axles
• Vehicles with seized brakes or collapsed suspensions

In these cases, confirm that both pickup and drop-off points allow for forklift access, or arrange for a rollback tow truck. Expect significantly higher costs and fewer available carriers.

Should You Use Enclosed or Open Transport for a Non-Runner?

When Is Enclosed Transport Worth It?

Use enclosed transport for:

• High-value or rare vehicles
• Restoration projects or classic cars
• Cars with fragile or exposed components

Enclosed carriers handle non-runners more carefully and protect them from weather, dust, and road debris — especially valuable when the vehicle is winched slowly into place.

Risks During Loading on Open Trailers

Open trailer loading involves ramps, angles, and exposure. Winching a car up steel ramps increases the risk of bumper scrapes, underbody contact, or alignment issues — especially with low-clearance or compromised vehicles.

If your car has loose panels, a sagging frame, or fresh paint, consider enclosed transport even for short distances.

Key Questions to Ask Your Transporter (for Non-Runners)

Before you book, ask these directly:

• Do you regularly transport inoperable vehicles?
• Do your trucks have a winch — and is it powered?
• Can your setup handle a car that doesn't roll?
• What if a forklift is needed — do you help coordinate that?
• Is winching damage covered under your insurance policy?
• Will I receive a signed Bill of Lading at both ends?
• Are there any extra fees I should know about for non-operable status?

Summary: Moving a Non-Runner Takes More Than Just a Quote

Shipping a non-running car is doable. But it’s not like shipping one that drives.

It takes more time, more care, and more coordination. And yes — more money.

With the right information and a transporter who knows what they’re doing, your vehicle will arrive safely and without surprises.

If you guess or leave out key details, you’ll pay for it — one way or another.

Need a quote that accounts for your car’s condition?
Get an accurate rate instantly with our free tool:
TCI Car Shipping Calculator — and don’t forget to check “inoperable.”

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